New Delhi: All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) Chief Asaduddin Owaisi said that Muslim's situation in today's India is similar to that of the Jews in Germany during dictator Adolf Hitler's era. In an interview with ANI, Owaisi said, "The position of Muslims in today's India is the same as the situation which Jews witnessed or experienced during Hitler's era in the 1930s. The gas chamber was the last step, before that movies were made, hate speeches took place, there was a whole process to it."
He also emphasized that It does not suit a Prime Minister to term all minorities as "Infiltrators", just to win the elections. "Our PM is saying that Mangalsutra will be removed from Hindu women and given to Muslims. 17 crore Muslims are being called infiltrators. Whether Modi ji will remain or not, the country will remain. The Total Fertility Rate (TFR) among Muslim women has fallen, this is the government's own data. To win an election you are calling all minorities as infiltrators. Hitler also used to say the same thing to Jews that they were not original Germans. Does this language suit the Prime Minister?" Owaisi said.  The AIMIM leader also mentioned that he is ready to prove with suitable data that Muslims are the poorest in the country. "Is Modi the Prime Minister of only Hindus? They have a fight with Congress, why are we (Muslims) being brought in between? PM should tell that Muslims are the poorest in this country. I am ready to prove this with data," he said. Further, Asaduddin Owaisi added that the Prime Minister (in his speeches) has forgotten to tell the country about Chandrayaan-3, G-20, 5-trillion economies, and everything. "The message that has been sent to Muslims and secular Hindus, today they are saying what is going on? They are asking me why is he (PM) so frustrated? The question was raised so many times in Parliament, but the government does not have any data on infiltrators. The language that the Prime Minister is using today was used by Hitler in 1930. The people of the country will decide whether Modi will step down but he has made the youth of the country unemployed, not able to stop China, all these are issues," he said. He also alleged that Muslims today are being identified by their clothes like-Hijab and those having more children. "Now there is no need to even wear a cross as it was put on Jews during Hitler's time. We are talking about a government that has systematically discriminated against every society, especially Muslims and Dalits. According to the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE), 1,80,000 Muslim names have disappeared from higher education in 2019 and 2021. This did not happen in Telangana and Rajasthan," Owaisi said.  Also, speaking on the Uniform Civil Code, the Hyderabad MP said that one law cannot be for everyone. "This will only harm the Hindu society. Some will say that there should be a Dayabhaga school of thoughts, some will say there should be Mitakshara school of thought. The beauty of this country is its diversity. Hindu Undivided Tax Rebate, why is it being given only to Hindus? Whatever law is passed; it is said that Hindu culture will be protected. You are making laws but are citing exceptions?" Owaisi added. He also termed Uttarakhand's UCC law as "Very dangerous". "You put a ban on inter-religious marriage in BJP-ruled states. When I have the right, that men, after 21 years and women after 18 years can marry anyone, then who are you to give permission? The UCC law of Uttarakhand is very dangerous. This law is just a way to distance Muslims from religion," the Hyderabad MP said.
—ANI

AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi draws parallels between the treatment of Muslims in India and Jews in Nazi Germany, criticizes PM's rhetoric on minorities.

"In today's India, Muslims are in similar situation to that of Jews during Hitler's era": Asaduddin Owaisi

New Delhi: India on Thursday rejected the report of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom that accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of "reinforcing discriminatory nationalist policies" and said the organisation is completely 'biased' and it doesn't even expect from the organization to understand country's diverse, pluralistic and democratic ethos. "The US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) is known as a biased organization with a political agenda. They continue to publish their propaganda on India masquerading as part of an annual report," Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said at a press briefing on Thursday.
"We really have no expectation that USCIRF will even seek to understand India's diverse, pluralistic and democratic ethos. Their efforts to interfere in the largest electoral exercise of the world will never succeed," he added. The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom is a U.S. federal government commission created by the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998. USCIRF Commissioners are appointed by the President and the leadership of both political parties in the Senate and the House of Representatives. Earlier on Wednesday, the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) which alleged that last year, Indian government failed to address communal violence disproportionately affecting Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Dalits, Jews, and Adivasis (indigenous peoples).  "In 2023, religious freedom conditions in India continued to deteriorate. The government, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), reinforced discriminatory nationalist policies, perpetuated hateful rhetoric, and failed to address communal violence disproportionately affecting Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Dalits, Jews, and Adivasis (indigenous peoples). Continued enforcement of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), and anti-conversion and cow slaughter laws resulted in the arbitrary detention, monitoring, and targeting of religious minorities and those advocating on their behalf," the report said. "Both news media and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) reporting on religious minorities were subjected to strict monitoring under FCRA regulations. In February 2023, India's Ministry of Home Affairs suspended the FCRA license of the Centre for Policy Research, an NGO dedicated to reporting on social issues and state capacity, including discrimination against religious and ethnic minorities. Similarly, authorities raided the offices and homes of NewsClick journalists, including Teesta Setalvad for her reporting on anti-Muslim violence during the 2002 Gujarat riots," it added.
—ANI

India rejects USCIRF's 2023 biased report accusing BJP of reinforcing discriminatory policies and ignoring communal violence.

"Propaganda on India": MEA firmly rejects USCIRF report on religious freedom in India

New Delhi [India]: In response to recent action by food regulators in Singapore and Hong Kong, India's commerce and industry ministry initiated an inquiry into the alleged banning of certain spices manufactured by Indian companies such as MDH and Everest, according to sources familiar with the matter. The Ministry has reportedly reached out to authorities in Singapore and Hong Kong, seeking detailed information regarding the banned spices and the reasons behind their rejection.
Technical specifications, analytical reports, and specifics regarding exporters, whose shipments have been turned away, are among the details requested. This inquiry extends to the embassies in Singapore and Hong Kong, as well as the Singapore Food Agency and the Centre for Food Safety and Food &amp; Environmental Hygiene Department in Hong Kong.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.thehawk.in/posts/everest-says-its-spices-are-safe-after-regulators'-warnings" target="_self">https://www.thehawk.in/posts/everest-says-its-spices-are-safe-after-regulators'-warnings</a>&nbsp;
Additionally, the Ministry has enlisted the cooperation of the companies mentioned in media reports surrounding the issue. The focus of the investigation is to ascertain the root causes of these rejections and to work with the exporters involved to implement necessary corrective measures.  In a move to address broader concerns within the industry, the Ministry has also called for a meeting to discuss the mandatory testing of Ethylene Oxide (ETO) in spice consignments destined for Singapore and Hong Kong.
—ANI

India's commerce ministry launches inquiry into alleged banning of Indian spices by Singapore and Hong Kong, seeks reasons behind rejection, and calls for mandatory testing.

Commerce Ministry seeks details of spice bans by Singapore, Hong Kong

Jaipur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said the Congress tried to extend reservation on the basis of religion and give it to Muslims, and once again accused the party of hatching a "deep conspiracy to snatch people's wealth" and distribute it among "select" people.
Launching a blistering attack on the Congress, Modi also charged that it is difficult to follow one's faith under the Congress and that even listening to Hanuman Chalisa becomes crime under that party's rule.  His remarks come on a day when the country is celebrating Hanuman Jayanti.
Addressing an election rally in Tonk, the prime minister said as soon as the Congress formed the government at the Centre in 2004, one of its first tasks was to reduce the SC/ST reservation in Andhra Pradesh and give it to Muslims.  "Modi is giving you a guarantee with an open heart that reservation for Dalits and backward tribals will neither end nor will it be allowed to be divided in the name of religion," he said.  Asserting that he understands the Constitution, Modi said he is dedicated to the Constitution and is a person who worships B R Ambedkar.  Amid a row over his "redistribution of wealth" remarks, the Prime Minister again charged that the Congress will snatch people's wealth and distribute it to select people.  Modi said the then prime minister Manmohan Singh had given a speech in which he had said that Muslims have the first right on the resources of the country.
"This was not a coincidence. This is not a single statement. Congress' ideology has always been of appeasement and vote bank politics. As soon as the Congress formed the government at the Centre in 2004, one of the first things it did was to reduce the SC/ST reservation in Andhra Pradesh and give it to Muslims," he said.  "This was a pilot project which the Congress wanted to try in the entire country. Between 2004 and 2010, the Congress tried to implement Muslim reservation in Andhra Pradesh four times but due to legal hurdles and the awareness of the Supreme Court, it could not fulfil its intention," he said.  "In 2011, the Congress tried to implement it throughout the country. They played a game of snatching away the rights given to SC, ST and OBC and giving them to others for vote bank politics. The Congress did this deliberately and without caring about the Constitution and B R Ambedkar," he said.
"I want to ask the Congress, will it declare that will it divide the reservation for Dalits and backward tribals and give it to Muslims?" he said.  Modi said when the BJP government in Karnataka got an opportunity, the first thing it did was to abolish the Muslim quota which was created by snatching it from ST and SC.  The Prime Minister said the constitutional limit for reservation was ending in 2020 and he had extended the reservation of Dalit and tribals for another 10 years.  The Congress and I.N.D.I. Alliance, Modi said, were peeved after he "exposed" their vote bank and appeasement politics in his recent address in Rajasthan's Banswara.  "I have put forth the truth before the country that the Congress is hatching a deep conspiracy to snatch your wealth and distribute it among 'select' people," he said.  He said when he "exposed" the vote bank politics of Congress, it angered the Congress and its I.N.D.I. Alliance so much that they have started abusing him everywhere.  Why is the Congress scared of the truth and hiding its policies, the Prime Minister asked.  "You have made the policy and taken the decision and when Modi exposed the secret and your hidden agenda came out, you are trembling," he said.
The Prime Minister charged that the Congress is stuck in the quagmire of its vote bank and does not care about the Constitution.  "It is written in their manifesto that they will survey the wealth. Their leader had said in a speech that X-ray of wealth will be done. This means that if something is kept in a box or hidden in a wall, it will be searched through X-ray. Then they will capture all your property which is more than required and then distribute it among the people," he said.  At a rally in Rajasthan on Sunday, Modi had said that if the Congress came to power, it would redistribute the wealth of people to "infiltrators" and those "who have more children", and cited former PM Manmohan Singh's remark that the minority community had the first claim on the country's resources.  Further attacking the Congress, Modi said, "Even listening to Hanuman Chalisa becomes crime under Congress rule" and referred to an incident in Congress-ruled Karnataka where a shopkeeper was beaten up for listening to Hanuman Chalisa.  He said during the Congress rule in Rajasthan, those who pelted stones on Ram Navmi procession were given protection and restrictions were imposed on such processions.  However, after the formation of the BJP government in the state, no one has the courage to question faith.  "Now, you will recite Hanuman Chalisa peacefully and also celebrate Ram Navami, this is the guarantee of BJP," he said.  The Prime Minister also accused the Congress of throwing Malpura, Karauli, Chhabra, Tonk and Jodhpur into the "fire of riots" during its rule.
—PTI

Narendra Modi accuses Congress of religious reservation conspiracy, stirring controversy amidst election fervor and Hanuman Jayanti celebrations.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Congress will do 'X-ray' of wealth, distribute it to 'select' people, says PM Modi

Amaravati: TDP’s candidate for Guntur Lok Sabha seat P Chandra Sekhar has captured headlines after he declared his family assets —both movable and immovable— at Rs 5,785 crore, in his election affidavit, potentially making him one of the wealthiest contestants in the current electoral race.
According to an affidavit filed by him, his individual assets stood at Rs 2,448.72 crore while his wife Sriratna Koneru has Rs 2,343.78 crore worth assets and children have nearly Rs 1,000 crore.  A press release by Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) had earlier said, former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath’s son Nakul Nath topped the richest contestants list in the Phase-I of the Lok Sabha polls held on April 19, with nearly Rs 717 crore worth of assets.
Chandra Sekhar’s family has a liability of Rs 1,138 crore to JP Morgan Chase Bank of USA in the form of Line of Credit.  From Burripalem village in Andhra Pradesh to working as physician teacher at Johns Hopkins University – Sinai Hospital to founding UWorld (online learning and study resources platform), Chandra Sekhar’s journey was truly fascinating.  The Doctor-Entrepreneur-Politician completed his MBBS at NTR University of Health Sciences Vijayawada in 1999 and pursued MD (Internal Medicine) from Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, Pennsylvania in 2005.  He secured 27th rank among 60,000 students who took the EAMCET medical entrance examination ( MBBS) in the state which was considered the most competitive examination in the country.  Chandra Sekhar with an interest in public service, has been working on behalf of the TDP’s NRI wing since 2010 to support several welfare programmes of the party.  Though he desired to contest the Lok Sabha polls from Narasaraopet segment in 2014, TDP allotted the ticket to R Sambasiva Rao due to political issues.  In a joint filing with his wife, he declared Rs 605.57 crore as per US Tax Cycle Year January 2022 to December 2022 in that country.  He has investments and shares in several US-based firms.  He also possesses luxury cars such as Rolls Royce Ghost, Mercedes Benz and Tesla in the USA.  Chnadra Sekhar will take on YSR Congress Party’s K Venkata Rosaiah in the elections.
—PTI

Explore the journey of P Chandra Sekhar, TDP's candidate with assets worth Rs 5,785 crore, from a physician to a political figure in the Guntur Lok Sabha 2024 race.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024 | With Rs 5785 cr assets, TDP LS contestant Chandra Sekhar stirs poll attention

New Delhi: A Delhi court on Tuesday extended the judicial custody of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and BRS leader K Kavitha in a money laundering case related to the alleged excise scam till May 7.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.thehawk.in/posts/delhi-court-rejects-kejriwal's-plea-for-video-call-with-doctor-tells-aiims-to-form-medical-board-to-examine-him" target="_self">https://www.thehawk.in/posts/delhi-court-rejects-kejriwal's-plea-for-video-call-with-doctor-tells-aiims-to-form-medical-board-to-examine-him</a>&nbsp;
Special judge for CBI and ED matters Kaveri Baweja extended their custody after they were produced before the court through video conference on expiry of their remand.
The judge also extended the judicial custody of Kavitha, a Telangana MLC and daughter of former chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao, till May 7 in the related corruption case being probed by the CBI.
—PTI

Judicial custody of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal and BRS's K Kavitha extended till May 7 over alleged excise scam, as judged by CBI/ED special court.

Delhi court extends judicial custody of Arvind Kejriwal till May 7

New Delhi: Senior Congress leader and advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi said that the party in its petition to the Election Commission of India has urged to take 'appropriate action' against Prime Minister Narendra Modi 'irrespective of the status of the person' over the PM's recent speech in Rajasthan's Banswara. Singhvi said that the Prime Minister's statement was 'seriously, ridiculously objectionable'.
"I have had the privilege of leading the Congress delegation involving about 17 complaints to the ECI. Most important is the first one which deals with the extremely objectionable comments of no less than the Chief Executive of this government. We respect the office he holds. He is as much as our Prime Minister as he is yours and he is BJP's. Unfortunately, the statement we have quoted is seriously, ridiculously objectionable. We pray to him (PM Modi) with folded hands to withdraw this statement and to clarify. We have asked the Election Commission to state that this is the position in law, we will do in his respect, whatever we do with others," Singhvi said while talking to reporters after the delegation of Congress met with the Election Commission of India on Monday.  "I am not going to quote what he has said. He has named a community, he has talked of religion blatantly, he has talked of communal and community blatantly. He has linked it with deprivation of resources of the majority and garnering and monopolisation of that resources by that minority. He has brought in Hindu imagery of no less than the Mangalsutra, therefore clearly violated Section 123, the basic principle of not allowing excitement and information of communal passions," the senior Congress leader said. He called the speech a "very serious, uncalled-for invasion" of the Constitution's basic structure and appealed to the ECI for action.
"Several circulars of the ECI on the MCC, the latest being on March 1, 2024. The constitutional ethos and spirit that make secularism a basic structure in our Consitution, makes a level playing field and democracy itself a part of the basic structure. A basic structure means that a constitutional amendment cannot violate the basic structure. This is a very serious, uncalled-for invasion and we hope and trust because the ECI is itself on trial that irrespective of the status of the person who has done this appropriate action as in any other case will and must follow shortly," Singhvi said.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.thehawk.in/posts/congress-ki-nazar-aapki-sampatti-mangal-sutra-par-hai:-pm-modi-lambasts-party's-%22maoist-thinking%22" target="_self">https://www.thehawk.in/posts/congress-ki-nazar-aapki-sampatti-mangal-sutra-par-hai:-pm-modi-lambasts-party's-%22maoist-thinking%22</a>&nbsp;
Singhvi-led Congress delegation met with the ECI earlier in the day. In a post on X, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said,"Today an @INCIndia delegation comprising Abhishek Manu Singhvi, Gurdeep Sappal, and Supriya Shrinate met with the Election Commission of India at 4 PM and put forward 16 complaints against the BJP and other actors for violations of The Representation of the People Act, 1951, various judgments of the Supreme Court, and the ECI's Model Code of Conduct. We hope that immediate action will be taken on these very legitimate complaints." Launching a scathing attack on the Congress party, PM Modi earlier on April 21 alleged that the Congress wants to take away the gold and property of people and distribute it among "those having more children."
In his speech in Rajasthan's Banswara, the Prime Minister said that if the Congress came to power, it would redistribute the wealth of people to Muslims and cited former PM Manmohan Singh's remark that the minority community had the first claim on the country's resources. Modi further alleged that the Congress plans to give people's hard-earned money and valuables to "infiltrators" and "those who have more children". "Congress manifesto says that it will calculate the gold owned by our mothers and sisters, collect information and then distribute to those...whom former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had said that Muslims have the first right on country's wealth." "They will check how much gold our sisters own, how much silver tribal families have, and how much money government employees have there. They (Congress) have said that gold owned by our sisters would be equally distributed. Does the government have the right to take your hard-earned property?" PM Modi said. "The gold is not just for showing, it is a woman's self-esteem. The value of 'Mangalsutra' is not just limited to the price of gold, but it is connected with their dreams. You (Congress) are talking about taking it away?" he added.
Attacking the Congress party further, the Prime Minister claimed that the "Urban Naxal" thinking wouldn't even spare the 'Mangalsutra'. "When they (Congress) were in government, they said that Muslims have the first right over India's resources. So, they will distribute this wealth (property and gold) among those having more children, among illegal immigrants...this Urban Naxal thinking won't even spare your Mangalsutra," he added.
—ANI

Abhishek Manu Singhvi leads a Congress delegation challenging PM Modi's speech to the Election Commission, citing violations of electoral laws.

Congress urges ECI for action against PM Modi 'irrespective of status of person' over Rajasthan speech

Aligarh (UP): Prime Minister Narendra Modi alleged that Congress has set its 'eyes' on people's hard-earned wealth, property and 'mangalsutra' of women, and plans to seize and redistribute it. Comparing the thinking of the Congress party with that of "Maoists", PM Modi said that those possessing two properties, will see one of them getting seized by the Congress and the INDIA bloc, if they come to power.
Addressing a public meeting in Aligarh on Monday, PM Modi said, "I want to warn the countrymen. Congress and the INDI alliance now have set their eyes on your (people's) earnings and your property. The 'Shehzada' of Congress says that if their government comes to power, they will investigate who earns how much, who has how many properties, how much money, how many houses. They will investigate all of it. Not just that, the government will seize all these properties and then distribute it." The matter pertains to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's statement, who recently spoke about the need to conduct a survey for more equitable distribution of the country's wealth, which erupted into a political row.  The Congress party later clarified that it didn't mention "redistribution" in its manifesto and nor did Rahul Gandhi promise to redistribute the nation's wealth. Party leader Jairam Ramesh alleged that Gandhi's words were "misquoted" and asserted that the party favours a "comprehensive socio-economic caste census." Emphasising the value of gold and 'mangalsutra' in a women's life, the Prime Minister said that the Congress party wants to survey the salary, investments and properties owned by the public and then seize them.
"Our mothers and sisters have gold. This is not just for wearing on occasions, this is 'stree dhan', it is considered sacred, even the law also protects it. Now they are eyeing to change the law and seize the property of our mothers and sisters. (Congress ki nazar aapki sampatti aur mangalsutar par hai) They have their eyes on the 'Mangalsutra' of women. Their intention is to steal the gold of mothers and sisters," PM Modi said. "The working population...who have invested in FD for the education and marriage of their children. People's salary will be investigated, whether people have one or two vehicles, that will also be investigated...and then Congress will grab their properties," he added.
He further said Congress and the INDIA bloc want to implement the same "Maoist" ideas here which have already ruined many countries. The Prime Minister further alleged that Congress would seize one of the two houses owned by people and give it to those who don't have it. "If you have an old ancestor's home in the village and you have a small flat in your city for the future of your children. If they got to know, they would take away one of the two...saying 'you don't need two, those who don't have it, let them have it'. This is Maoist (Maovadi) thinking, this is the thinking of communists. By doing this they (Communists) have already ruined many countries. Now the Congress Party and INDI alliance want to implement this same policy in India. Congress wants to put its 'panja' (claw) on people's hard-earned wealth. It wants to loot the 'Stree Dhan'," PM Modi said. Earlier on Sunday, PM Modi fiercely denounced manifesto of Congress during a rally in Rajasthan's Banswara and said that the Congress party has plans to redistribute gold and hard-earned money to "illegal immigrants" and "those having more children" while asking people whether this is acceptable to them or not. Aligarh Lok Sabha seat will go to polls in the second phase on April 26 along with Gautam Buddha Nagar, Meerut, Baghpat, Ghaziabad, Aligarh, Mathura and Bulandshahr seats in Uttar Pradesh. Uttar Pradesh, the largest state in the country, contributes 80 MPs to the 543- member Parliament.
—ANI

PM Modi claims Congress eyes seizing properties and 'mangalsutra' as part of wealth redistribution, likening it to Maoist policies.

Congress ki nazar aapki sampatti, mangal sutra par hai: PM Modi lambasts party's "Maoist thinking"

New Delhi: Supplies of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles from India to the Philippines under a USD 375 million deal, continue as part of the contract between the two nations, defence officials said. The missile system supplies reached at an air base in Manila from India in a chartered Ilyushin-76 transport aircraft on Sunday, they said.
Officials from India and the Philippines are receiving the first batch of equipment supplied to that country as part of the contract, defence officials said. Notably, India delivered the first lot of the supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines on April 19, as part of the deal signed in 2022. The Indian Air Force had sent its American-origin C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft with the missiles to the Philippines to deliver the weapon system to the Philippines' Marine Corps, according to defence sources. The export of ground systems for the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system along with the missiles started last month itself, they said.
The Philippines is taking delivery of the missile systems at a time when tensions between them and China have escalated owing to frequent clashes in the South China Sea. The three batteries of the BrahMos missile system would be deployed by the Philippines in their coastal areas to guard against any threat in the region. The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, a joint venture between the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russian Federation's NPO Mashinostroyeniya, is said to be one of the most successful missile programs in the world. Acknowledged as the foremost and swiftest precision-guided weapon on a global scale, BRAHMOS has played a pivotal role in enhancing India's deterrence capabilities.  The Indian Army has integrated multiple BrahMos regiments into its arsenal since 2007.
—ANI

India delivers another batch of BrahMos missiles to the Philippines as part of a $375M deal, bolstering defenses amid South China Sea tensions.

BrahMos missile system supplies from India continue to reach Philippines under USD375 million deal

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday emphasised India's commitment to global well-being and stated that India is not only the oldest living civilization in the world but also a safe heaven for humanity, adding that the country thinks not for itself alone but for the whole of humanity. Addressing the 2550th Bhagwan Mahaveer Nirvan Mahotsav at the Bharat Mandapam in the national capital, PM Modi said, "India is not only the oldest living civilization in the world but also a safe haven for humanity."
"Yeh Bharat he hain jo aham nahi vayam ki sochta hain," the Prime Minister said. "It is India which thinks not for itself but for the whole...It thinks not of ego but of delusion. It does not believe in the limit, but in the infinite. India talks about policy and destiny. It talks about the God in the living being," PM Modi said. Highlighting India's evolving role on the global stage, PM Modi credited this newfound responsibility to India's expanding capabilities and refined foreign policy strategies. "Today, the world caught in conflict is expecting peace from India. The credit for this new role for India is being given to our growing capability and foreign policy. But I want to tell you, our cultural image has made a big contribution to this. Today, India has come into this role because we keep forth truth and non-violence on global platforms with full confidence. We tell the world that the solution to global crises and conflicts lies in India's ancient culture and tradition. Therefore, today India is making its place as a world friend in a world divided in opposition," he said.  "We never came to attack other countries to win them; we have overcome our shortcomings by improving ourselves. That is why difficult times have come and in every era, some sage or another has appeared to guide us. Many great civilizations ended, but India found its own way," the Prime Minister said. He further emphasised the importance of strengthening the values of 'Astey' (non-stealing) and 'Ahinsa' (non-violence) in society. "We must work to strengthen the spirits of 'Astey' and 'Ahinsa' in our society. I am sure that your support will make the resolve for Bharat's Vikas Yatra stronger than ever before. 'Yahi Samay Hai, Sahi Samay Hai'!" PM Modi said.  Extending his wishes on the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, the Prime Minister said, "To be part of such a programme during the hustle and bustle of elections is comforting." He also released a commemorative stamp and coin at the inauguration of the 2550th Bhagwan Mahaveer Nirvan Mahotsav, on the occasion of Mahaveer Jayanti at Bharat Mandapam.
—ANI

PM Modi highlights India's role in promoting global peace and non-violence at the Bhagwan Mahaveer Nirvan Mahotsav on Mahavir Jayanti in New Delhi.

"India does not think for itself alone...," PM Modi on Mahavir Jayanti says country a safe haven for humanity

New Delhi: Air India on Sunday decided to temporarily suspend flights to Tel Aviv amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran.
An official said the direct flights between Delhi and Tel Aviv will be suspended for now.  Air India operates four weekly flights between the national capital and Israeli city.  Also Read: <a href="https://www.thehawk.in/posts/iran-says-neighbours-notified-of-attacks-on-israel-72-hours-in-advance" target="_self">https://www.thehawk.in/posts/iran-says-neighbours-notified-of-attacks-on-israel-72-hours-in-advance</a>&nbsp;
The Tata group-owned carrier recommenced services to Tel Aviv on March 3 after a gap of nearly five months.  Air India suspended flights to and from Tel Aviv, starting October 7, 2023, in the wake of the Hamas attack on the Israeli city.
—PTI

Air India temporarily stops flights to Tel Aviv due to increased Israel-Iran tensions, affecting its Delhi-Tel Aviv route operations.

Air India temporarily suspends Tel Aviv flights

New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has unveiled plan to uplift and advance the fisheries sector in its election manifesto of 2024. The BJP in its manifesto promises to modernize fishing infrastructure, provide financial support, and facilitate skill development initiatives for the fisherman. The party manifesto says "We are committed to advancing the prosperity and welfare of our fishermen by enhancing fisheries through initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, modernising infrastructure, and providing financial support and skill development".
A key promise in the BJP's manifesto is the extension of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana to further increase fish production and boost annual seafood exports. The manifesto further promises to bolster the fisheries sector in India and enhance its contribution to the economy. Additionally, the party pledges to strengthen and expand insurance coverage available under the PM Matsya Sampada Yojana through technological interventions to ensure speedy and accurate assessment.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.thehawk.in/posts/bjp-launches-its-manifesto-'sankalp-patra'-for-2024-lok-sabha-polls" target="_self">https://www.thehawk.in/posts/bjp-launches-its-manifesto-'sankalp-patra'-for-2024-lok-sabha-polls</a>&nbsp;
The manifesto also outlines plans to develop production and processing clusters, with special attention to women of coastal communities. This initiative aims to create sustainable livelihood opportunities and promote gender inclusivity in the fisheries sector.  Furthermore, the BJP promises to boost seaweed cultivation and promote pearl farming under the PM Matsya Sampada Yojana, thereby increasing income opportunities for fishermen. According to the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, the fisheries sector is recognized as the 'Sunrise Sector' and the sector sustains livelihoods of around 30 million people in India particularly that of the marginalized and vulnerable communities. With record fish production of 175.45 lakh tons in FY 2022-23, India is the third largest fish producing country in the world accounting for 8% of global production. To enhance production and productivity in the fisheries sector, the BJP also plans to establish a network of Nucleus Breeding Centres and Brood Banks. Moreover, the BJP through its manifesto emphasizes the use of technology for farm biosecurity, disease management in aquatic animals, and growth monitoring.
—ANI

BJP's 2024 manifesto pledges to revolutionize fisheries with Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana extension, modernization, financial aid, and gender inclusivity.

BJP manifesto promises to modernize fishery sector

New Delhi: Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud paid floral tribute to Dr. BR Ambedkar on his 134th birth anniversary at the Supreme Court premises on Sunday. Speaking to ANI, DY Chandrachud said, "This is a very special day for all of us. It's the birth anniversary of Dr. BR Ambedkar, who is the architect of our constitution and who brought about a complete social transformation. His message continues to be as valid today as it was when he was drafting the Indian Constitution."
"We are very privileged to have in our midsts the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Singapore, Justice Sundaresh Menon and his colleagues from the Supreme Court and the High Court. So this has made the occasion even more special for us as we celebrate the life of Dr Ambedkar and pay homage and tribute to him this morning," he added. Earlier, President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid floral tribute to Dr BR Ambedkar. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar also paid tribute to the architect of the Constitution at his statue in the Parliament premises.
"Tributes to Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar on his Jayanti. Jai Bhim!" the Prime Minister posted on X.
"Babasaheb Ambedkar is an inspiration for various people belonging to the backward classes. He made us realise that to achieve anything, it's not necessary to be born into a rich family. In India, people born into poor families can also dream and work hard to fulfil their vision," PM Modi said in the video posted on X. "There were times when people tried to stop them and believed that poor people belonging to a backward class would not move forward. However, the image of the new India is completely different. This India belongs to Babasaheb Ambedkar, to the poor, to the backward class," he added.
Born on April 14, 1891, Baba Saheb Ambedkar was an Indian jurist, economist, politician, and social reformer who campaigned against social discrimination towards Dalits and supported the rights of women and workers. He died on December 6, 1956. Baba Saheb Ambedkar was a prolific student, earning doctorates in economics from both Columbia University and the University of London. In 1956. He led a satyagraha in Mahad to fight for the right of the untouchable community to draw water from the main water tank of the town. On September 25, 1932, the agreement known as the Poona Pact was signed between Ambedkar and Madan Mohan Malaviya. Due to the pact, the depressed class received 148 seats in the legislature, instead of the 71 as allocated earlier. He was also one of the seven members of the committee that drafted the Indian Constitution after independence. In 1990, Ambedkar was conferred with the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award. Baba Saheb Ambedkar died in his sleep on December 6, 1956 at his home in Delhi.
—ANI

Chief Justice DY Chandrachud leads tributes at Supreme Court premises on Dr. BR Ambedkar's 134th birth anniversary, emphasizing his constitutional legacy.

CJI DY Chandrachud pays floral tributes to BR Ambedkar on his birth anniversary

New Delhi: Hours after Iran launched dozens of drones and missiles at Israel in a retaliatory attack, India on Sunday said it is concerned over escalating hostilities between the two sides that threaten regional peace and security.
Iran carried out the attack on Israel in response to a suspected Israeli strike on its consulate in Damascus on April 1 in which seven Iranian Revolutionary Guards personnel, including two generals, were killed.  In its reaction, India called for immediate de-escalation of the situation and return to the path of diplomacy. New Delhi said its embassies in the region are in close touch with the Indian community in the region.  "We are seriously concerned at the escalation of hostilities between Israel and Iran which threatens the peace and security in the region," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.
Watch: <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1779336020380795294?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1779336020380795294%7Ctwgr%5E63764f14bf6ddca76990c5bad5190affc05f4d50%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.deccanherald.com%2Fworld%2Fseriously-concerned-at-escalation-of-hostilities-between-israel-iran-india-2977568" target="_self">https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1779336020380795294?</a>
"We call for immediate de-escalation, exercise of restraint, stepping back from violence and return to the path of diplomacy," it said.  The MEA said India is closely monitoring the evolving situation in West Asia.

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"We are closely monitoring the evolving situation. Our Embassies in the region are in close touch with Indian community," it said in a statement.  "It is vital that security and stability are maintained in the region," it added.  On Saturday, the Iranian military seized a cargo ship with Israeli links near the Strait of Hormuz. The ship has 17 Indian crew members.  India is in touch with Iran to secure the release of Indians onboard the Portuguese-flagged vessel 'MSC Aries'.  Following Iran's attack, the Israeli military said it and its allies have intercepted the majority of more than 300 drones and missiles fired by Iran.  US President Joe Biden said the American military helped Israel take down nearly all of the incoming drones and missiles launched by Iran.  "Earlier today, Iran and its proxies operating out of Yemen, Syria and Iraq, launched an unprecedented air attack against military facilities in Israel. I condemn these attacks in the strongest possible terms," he said in a statement.
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"At my direction, to support the defence of Israel, the US military moved aircraft and ballistic missile defense destroyers to the region over the course of the past week," Biden said.  "Thanks to these deployments and the extraordinary skill of our service members, we helped Israel take down nearly all of the incoming drones and missiles," he said.  The US president also spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and reaffirmed Washington's 'ironclad' commitment to the security of Israel.  "Tomorrow, I will convene my fellow G7 leaders to coordinate a united diplomatic response to Iran's brazen attack. My team will engage with their counterparts across the region," Biden said.  "And we will stay in close touch with Israel's leaders. And while we have not seen attacks on our forces or facilities today, we will remain vigilant to all threats and will not hesitate to take all necessary action to protect our people," he said.
—PTI

India voices concern over Iran-Israel conflict, calls for de-escalation and emphasizes diplomacy. Indian embassies monitor West Asia situation closely.

Seriously concerned at escalation of hostilities between Israel, Iran: India

New Delhi [India]: With barely five days left for the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections to get underway, the Bharatiya Janata Party released its poll manifesto on Sunday with the tagline "Modi ki Guarantee," with a focus on more development, women's welfare and a roadmap for "Viksit Bharat" (developed India). According to the BJP, the year 2025 will be declared the 'Janjatiya Gaurav Year'.
The BJP election manifesto promised 'One Nation One Election' and "single electoral roll". The manfisto released by the BJP also focuses on bringing forward more Lakhpati Didis. It promises to make electricity bills zero with the PM Surya Ghar Yojana. Also, the manifesto of BJP features India's Olympics bid in 2036, the implementation of the National Education Policy, and a law against paper leaks, among other promises. In its election promise, the party also aims to make the nation the third largest economy in the world.

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The manifesto set the goal of making India a "global manufacturing hub." The manifesto was unveiled in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and party President JP Nadda. JP Nadda, while addressing the event, said that the government's achievements over the last 10 years, such as the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution and the women's reservation law, were made possible due to the clear mandate given to the party by people. "The achievements of the last 10 years are a result of a clear mandate," Nadda said at a function to release the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. The BJP had appointed a manifesto committee headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh that met twice to deliberate on its contents after the party had launched multiple exercises, including massive campaigns across the country to seek people's suggestions before the release of the 'Sankalp Patra'. The BJP received over 1.5 million suggestions for its manifesto, including more than 400,000 through the NaMo app and over 1.1 million through videos.

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The Lok Sabha polls in India are scheduled to take place from April 19, 2024, to June 1, 2024, to choose the 543 representatives for the 18th Lok Sabha. These elections will be conducted over seven phases, with the outcome being declared on June 4. Around 970 million individuals, out of a total population of 1.44 billion, are eligible to take part in the elections. The legislative assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Odisha, and Sikkim will coincide with the general election. Additionally, there will be by-elections for 35 seats across 16 states.
—ANI

Discover the highlights of the BJP's 2024 election manifesto, promising major reforms under "Modi ki Guarantee" for a developed India and economic growth.

BJP launches its manifesto 'Sankalp Patra' for 2024 Lok Sabha polls

New Delhi: In its election manifesto - 'Sankalp Patra', the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has vowed to implement the Union Civil Code (UCC), maintain peace in the Northeast, among other key poll promises. The party released its "Sankalp Patra" on Sunday at its headquarters in New Delhi in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
The party said that women will not get equal rights until a common legal code is implemented. "Article 44 of the Constitution lists the Uniform Civil Code as one of the Directive Principles of State Policy. BJP believes that there cannot be gender equality till such time Bharat adopts a Uniform Civil Code, that protects the rights of all women, and the BJP reiterates its stand to draw a Uniform Civil Code, drawing upon the best traditions and harmonising them with modern times," the BJP said in its manifesto.
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UCC is contemplated as a common set of laws for citizens governing personal matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption, irrespective of religion, sex, gender or caste. Notably, Uttarakhand became the first state in India to implement UCC earlier this year. The party also said that it will continue its effective efforts to establish peace in the North-East and phase out the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act. "We will continue our efforts to address the issues in the disturbed areas and remove AFSPA in a phased manner. We will further work towards the resolution of inter-state border disputes amongst Northeastern states through sustained efforts," the party said in its manifesto.  Last year, violence rupted in one of the Northeast states- Manipur after indigenous communities held a rally to protest against demands by the main ethnic group in the state for tribal status. Notably, the AFSPA Act empowers the governor of the state or administrator of Union territory or the Centre to issue an official notification concerning disturbed areas, after which the central government has the authority to send in armed forces for civilian aid. The party further said that it will work to leverage the Northeast as a strategic gateway for Bharat's Act East Policy, ensuring connectivity, education, health, economic development and security. BJP also promised to build 'sarovars' to manage floods in the Northeast. "We will ensure flood management in the Northeast by conducting advanced satellite imagery to identify places where big reservoirs can be constructed to store excess waters according to topography, which will be used for irrigation, and organising water sports, among others," it added. The party has also promised to implement laws to prevent paper leaks and conduct transparent public exams.
"We have already enacted a strict law to stop misconduct in recruitment exams across the country. We will strictly implement this law to ensure strict punishment for those playing with the future of our youth. We have set an example by conducting recruitment exams in a transparent manner and recruiting lakhs of youth for government jobs. We will continue to fill the government vacancies in a time-bound and transparent manner. We will also extend the central government capacity to states that request support in conducting recruitment examinations," the party said. The manifesto launched by BJP featured India's Olympics bid in 2036 and the implementation of National Education Policy 2020 among other promises. "Young citizens form an essential pillar of our commitment towards building a Viksit Bharat. Our vision is to build a Viksit Bharat where young citizens can fully realise their potential. We will develop an integrated education framework under the NEP, to ensure young citizens have the opportunity to earn while they learn. We guarantee high-quality education, world-class sports facilities, employment and entrepreneurial opportunities to all young citizens through the NEP and other programmes," the party added. The BJP had appointed a manifesto committee headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh that met twice to deliberate on its contents after the party had launched multiple exercises, including massive campaigns across the country to seek people's suggestions before the release of the 'Sankalp Patra'. The BJP received over 1.5 million suggestions for its manifesto, including more than 400,000 through the NaMo app and over 1.1 million through videos. The Lok Sabha polls in India are scheduled to take place from April 19, 2024, to June 1, 2024, to choose the 543 representatives for the 18th Lok Sabha. These elections will be conducted over seven phases, with the outcome being declared on June 4.
—ANI

Explore BJP's 2024 election manifesto, highlighting UCC, Northeast development, and education reforms under NEP, aiming for transformative governance in India.

Lok Sabha polls: BJP manifesto focuses on UCC implementation, maintaining peace in Northeast

New Delhi: In a landmark move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that the Bharatiya Janata Party has decided to bring the transgender community and senior citizens above 70 years of age whether poor, middle class or upper middle class, under the ambit of Ayushman Bharat scheme. Addressing the gathering of leaders at party headquarters in the national capital after the unveiling of the manifesto, 'Sankalp Patra', PM Modi said, "BJP has decided to bring transgender community also under the ambit of Ayushman Bharat scheme. Now BJP has resolved that every elderly person above the age of 70 years will be brought under the ambit of Ayushman Yojana."
"Every senior citizen above the age of 70 years, whether poor, middle class or upper middle class, will get free treatment up to Rs 5 lakh," he added. The Prime Minister said that the party's focus is on the dignity of life, quality of life and jobs through investment. "The entire country waits for the BJP's 'Sankalp Patra'. There is a big reason behind it as in the last 10 years, the BJP has implemented every point of its manifesto as a guarantee on the ground. This 'Sankalp Patra' empowers all four strong pillars of developed India- Youth, women, poor and farmers. Our focus is on the dignity of life, quality of lives and jobs through investment," PM Modi said.
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He further announced that the BJP has decided to increase the amount of the MUDRA Yojana loan from 10 lakh to 20 lakh. "In past years, MUDRA Yojana has turned crores of people into entrepreneurs. Looking at this success, BJP has taken one more 'sankalp' - under MUDRA Yojana loans up to Rs 10 Lakhs were provided. Now the BJP has decided to increase the limit to Rs 20 Lakhs. I am confident that this will be used as a new strength towards building the kind of ecosystem that is required for the era of Industry 4.0," he said. He also said that the existing free ration scheme will continue for the next five years. "Modi guarantees that the free ration scheme will continue for the next 5 years. We will ensure that the poor person's food plate is nutritious, satisfying, and affordable," the Prime Minister said. BJP's manifesto declaration coincides with Babasaheb Ambedkar Jayanti Referring to this, the PM said, "This is a very holy day. Several states in the country are celebrating the 'nav varsh'. Today, on the 6th day of Navaratri we pray to Maa Katyayani. She holds the lotus in both her hands. This coincidence is a huge blessing. Even better, it is Ambedkar Jayanti too."
The Lok Sabha polls in India are scheduled to take place from April 19, 2024, to June 1, 2024, to choose the 543 representatives for the 18th Lok Sabha. These elections will be conducted over seven phases, with the outcome being declared on June 4. Around 970 million individuals, out of a total population of 1.44 billion, are eligible to take part in the elections. The legislative assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Odisha, and Sikkim will coincide with the general election. Additionally, there will be by-elections for 35 seats across 16 states.
—ANI

PM Modi expands Ayushman Bharat to include all seniors over 70 and transgenders, doubles MUDRA loan limit to 20 lakhs, and confirms ongoing free ration scheme.

"Transgender community, senior citizens to come under Ayushman Bharat scheme": PM Modi

New Delhi: Seventeen Indians are on board an Israeli-linked container ship that has been seized by the Iranian military amid heightened tensions between Iran and Israel.
Official sources said India is in touch with Iranian authorities through diplomatic channels, both in Tehran and in Delhi, to ensure the welfare and early release of the Indian nationals.
The Iranian action came amid increasing fears that Tehran may launch an attack on Israeli soil in retaliation to a strike on the Iranian consulate in Syria 12 days ago.  "We are aware that a cargo ship 'MSC Aries' has been taken control by Iran. We have learnt that there are 17 Indian nationals onboard," said a source.  "We are in touch with the Iranian authorities through diplomatic channels, both in Tehran and in Delhi, to ensure security, welfare and early release of Indian nationals," it said.  Reports said Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards seized MSC Aries on Saturday morning when it was sailing through the Strait of Hormuz.
—PTI

Seventeen Indians aboard the MSC Aries seized by Iran amidst rising Iran-Israel tensions. India seeks their early release through diplomatic channels.

India in touch with Iran to secure release of 17 nationals onboard Tehran seized Israeli-linked ship

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi used "noob," a term in vogue in the gaming community used for denote those who display a lack of skill or knowledge to take a veiled jibe that appeared to target Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. PM Modi released a video of his candid conversation with a few famed online video gamers recorded at his residence last month. "Had a wonderful interaction with youngsters from the gaming community... You would love to watch this!," PM Modi said on X and attached the recorded video.
The gamers who met with the Prime Minister included Tirth Mehta, Animesh Agarwal, Anshu Bisht, Naman Mathur, Mithilesh Patankar, Ganesh Gangadhar, and Payal Dhare. During the free-wheeling interaction, the gamers discussed some gaming terminologies with PM Modi which also included "noob". PM Narendra Modi couldn't control his laughter on hearing the term "noob". "If I use this word during elections, people will wonder who am I referring to. If I say it, you will assume it is aimed at a particular person," he said to the gamers.
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Bollywood actress and BJP leader Kangana Ranaut posted on X, "Who is this Noob?" BJP leader Shehzad Poonawalla also took a swipe at Congress leaders over PM Modi's "noob" jibe and said, "Noob PM @narendramodi did not name anybody but why are Congress leaders reacting and confirming ki Rajniti ka Noob kaun hai."  Meanwhile, during his interaction, PM Modi also discussed differences between gaming and gambling. He also asked gamers to send an e-mail mentioning all their problems with exact key points to his office. "To regulate would not be ideal because it is the nature of government to intervene, that is its fundamental nature. Either impose restrictions under the law or try to understand and mould it basis our country's needs. Bring it under an organised, legal structure and uplift the reputation," Modi said on being asked if there could be a regulatory body for gaming. "Once that is achieved, it will be hard for anyone to bring it down. My endeavour is to uplift the nation to a level that by 2047, the middle class does not require unnecessary government intervention. Otherwise, we will remain trapped in the cycle of paperwork, documents and legal systems. It is the poor who need the government the most in difficult times..." Modi said. The gaming industry in India peaked in 2019 and since then, various games have emerged based on Indian mythology, and the government has been recognizing the creativity. While the country's Esports landscape is mobile-dominated, it is the PC title League of Legends that is making the country proud. Despite the game having no official server in India, the determination and passion of the game's talented athletes saw them utilize their skills to impressively qualify for the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou.
—ANI

Prime Minister Modi's conversation with gamers trends as he discusses gaming, noob jibes, and regulations amidst political undertones.

PM Modi interacts with gamers, says he would from using "Noob" during elections

Kozhikode (Kerala): Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has lauded the efforts of Malayalis from across the globe who rallied together to raise Rs 35.45 crore through a crowd-funding campaign to secure the release of Kohzikode native Abdul Rahim, who has been in jail for more than 18 years in Saudi Arabia and facing a death penalty. Vijayan took to social media to say, "When the propagandists of hatred spread lies against the state, the Malayalees are raising their defence through stories of humanity and philanthropy. For the release of Abdul Rahim, a native of Kozhikode who was sentenced to death in Saudi Arabia, Malayalees all over the world have joined hands and collected 34 crore rupees."
Abdul Rahim employed as a house driver of a Saudi citizen and the caretaker of a 15- year-old disabled boy. In Rahim's version of the fatal incident, while travelling with the boy one day, Rahim stopped the vehicle at a red light. When the boy demanded Rahim violate the red signal, he accidentally hit and dislodged the tube of a life-support device attached to the boy's body after which the boy fell unconscious and died. Rahim was sentenced to death in 2018 under Saudi law for murder and although the victim's family was adamant about the death penalty until the last moment, they eventually agreed to pardoning him if he paid 'blood money' of 15 million Saudi riyals.  The legal action committee that organised the crowdfunding to save Abdur Rahim, thanked the people of the state and said that the collection of funds has stopped and no one should send any more money. The committee set up an app called 'SAVEABDULRAHIM' to collect the amount. More than Rs 30 crore were collected through the app, which was set up and the fundraising target was achieved by adding the amount received offline. The social media campaign was driven by posts and requests to aid the release of Abdul Rahim. Many influencers, NRIs, businessmen, and social activists headed the campaign on social media to ensure he returned home after 18 years. The committee said that it will contact the Indian Embassy in Riyadh to help secure Rahim's release before the April 15 deadline. The Kerala Chief Minister also called the initiative, "a noble example of human love." "To save a human life, to shed tears of a family, they created. This is the real Kerala story. This is a firm declaration that Kerala is a fortress of brotherhood that cannot be broken by communalism. We heartily appreciate all the goodwill that has united for this cause which has made Kerala proud in front of the world. The role played by expatriate Malayalis behind this initiative is commendable. Let us move forward with one mind, stronger for this unity," the Chief Minister said.
—ANI

Kerala unites to save Abdul Rahim from death penalty in Saudi, raising ₹35.45 crore through a worldwide crowdfunding effort led by Malayalis.

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